Archival Loafers

by Lesli Larson

"Weejun" style loafer

Alden Penny Loafer (Cape Cod Collection)

I've been wearing Weejun-style loafers since I was teen. I used to buy the Bass boy's model since I hated the low vamp on the version for women. Since Sebago left the US market, I've been searching for a new source for loafers that would resemble classic era Weejuns. My requirements: high vamp, quality leather, perfect fit and top quality construction. I was willing to pay more to stop the cycle of having to discard worn loafers after less than a year of wear (I really do wear these on a daily basis).

On Saturday, I visited Jordan at Winn Perry to sample a loafer that fit my shopping requirements. Jordan knew about my loafer search and suggested a beef roll penny loafer from the Cape Cod Collection--one that does not appear in the Alden print or online catalog. I should note that I continue to source my loafers from men's collections. As readers of this blog know, it's nearly impossible to find classic style footwear in sizes for women. I wear a women's 8.5 but can get away with a men's 6.5 or 6. Fortunately, Alden offers most of their shoes in sizes down to 6 (and smaller) in a range of widths. Jordan was kind enough to size my feet using a Brannock device. Now that I know my Alden size (for different lasts), I can sign up for one of his future, special edition Alden projects.

As it turns out, the Alden H410 loafers are perfect. After a little prep by my local shoe repairman (adding a protective half-sole), I'll be testing these out as my daily drivers. Thanks to Jordan for sourcing these loafers for me. I would never have found them on my own. How important, still, is the brick and mortar store and its knowledgeable proprietor!

Alden Model H410 penny loafers

Beef roll stitching on Sebagos, vintage Sears loafers and new Aldens

From the archives